Here are the specifics on MSC Euribia's world-first net zero cruise

MSC Cruises shared details of voyage, which operated in June on its newest ship, following its selection as Sustainability Initiative of the Year in the Seatrade Cruise Awards.

11% better performance than its digital twin

The measures undertaken during the LNG-powered MSC Euribia's four-day sailing from Saint-Nazaire, France to Copenhagen enabled the ship to perform 11% better than its digital twin, a virtual ship that reproduced the optimum energy flow and mirrored the fuel utilization on board.

Energy efficiency measures included optimal speed profiles, routing, trim and engine configuration, and strict management of the hotel`s energy consumption that meant that MSC Euribia never had to use more than two of its four engines during the voyage.

All the required heat for galleys, heating and ventilation systems and production of hot water was recovered from the engines, meaning there was no need to use the boilers.

Mass balance approach using bio-LNG

The 181,011gt MSC Euribia used bio-LNG as a fuel, on a mass balance approach, the most cost-effective and environmentally efficient method of delivering the benefits of renewable LNG and a process fully recognised under the European Union’s Renewable Energy Directive, known as RED II. Each batch of bio-LNG produced was certified by the International Sustainability and Carbon Certification.

Regulatory and financial incentives for fuel producers needed

'MSC Euribia’s pioneering voyage was a significant achievement and proved that net zero GHG emissions cruising is possible today and well ahead of the 2050 target for the industry,' said Linden Coppell, VP sustainability & ESG, MSC Cruises. 'We are eager for the appropriate regulatory and financial incentives for fuel producers to provide the fuels needed, at the scale that is needed, which, alongside technology, will power the industry’s journey towards decarbonization.'

MSC Cruises plans to use the data harvested during MSC Euribia’s voyage to further drive down the emissions intensity of its fleet and expedite the company’s decarbonization goals.

Further information on this accomplishment is featured in Seatrade Cruise Review's September issue